Reindeer and Russians

It’s time for reindeer and Russia! Where classic European capitals meet stunning natural landscapes, this lineup is pretty special. You’ll tick off the likes of the Arctic Circle (aka the Land of the Midnight Sun), Moscow, St Petersburg and loads more. Are you ready for this?

There's just enough time to wake up and take a stroll through Gustav Vigeland's bizarre and eccentric sculpture park this morning. Then: a comprehensive driving tour and an optional visit to the Viking Ship Museum, Kon-Tiki Museum and Fram Polar Ship. Take the rest of the day off to soak up Oslo's funky 60s vibe.

On to Lillehammer, home of the 1994 Winter Olympics. Do an optional run down the bobsled track before we move on to Åndalsnes for a full day on the Geiranger Fjord. To call the scenery epic would be an understatement (check out Google Images for proof). Also today: a visit to the distinctive Ringebu Stave Church.

Grab yourself a window seat as we wind our way around some of Europe's most scenic roads en route to the famous Trolls' Path Crossing. Sit back and drink in the sheer scale of the breathtaking fjords - long recognised as some of the world's greatest natural attractions. Later, we'll get up close and personal with the impossibly beautiful Geirangerfjord on a sightseeing cruise. One word: wow.

Included today:
-Drive the famous Trolls' Path Crossing
-Cruise the majestic Geirangerfjord

Today we chase the sun to Trondheim, the religious capital of Norway. Repent your sins - the next stop is Hell. Yes, really (only this one is usually frozen over). Temperatures can dip down as low as -25°C. After snapping up some photographic proof of our visit, we're off to Steinkjer for the night.

On to Tysfjord for the night to experience the narrowest point in Norway. Look forward to the chance to check out Svartisen, Norway's second largest glacier. Covering a full 370 square kilometres and at just 20 m above sea level, it's the lowest glacier in mainland Europe - making it easily accessible for hikes and nature-based experiences. Top tip: wear your comfy shoes.

Onwards and upwards, we're heading north for the last time to witness the height of the midnight sun (so named as it doesn't set between May and June). If you're lucky with the weather, you can expect to see nature at its absolute best.

Cross back over the Arctic Circle and practise your best 'Jingle Bells' as we make our way to Rovaniemi for a trip to Santa's Village. Excitement level: 100/10. Keep your eyes peeled for Santa's reindeer from your window seat.

It's all about whatever tickles your fancy today. See the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral or check out the KGB museum for a history lesson on the antics of the Soviet Union's former security agency. Pro tip: Old Town is where you'll get the best kind of Estonian #throwback vibes.

Today: a St Petersburg driving tour with a super knowledgeable local guide. Learn all the juicy insider info as you check out oh-so-many bucket list items. Anything called the Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood has got to be worth a look (and it really is). You won't be bored in St Petersburg, for sure.

Dig into breakfast, then we're off on a guided tour of the Hermitage Museum. This place spans six palatial buildings, including the epic Winter Palace. Ah-maze! You won't want to miss this. Next: (window) shopping your way down Nevsky Prospect, the capital's main street.

Roll into Moscow today, where the city is alive in rain, hail or shine. Believe it or not, Moscow sparkles - so be prepared for an incredible few days ahead. As you move through the city, spot the tangible reminders of Russia's involvement in modern history.

Swing by the greats on today's driving tour, including Moscow University, Red Square and St Basil's Cathedral (aka the capital's technicolor sandcastle). Explore the Kremlin with our local guide before setting off to roam the streets. Tonight: get fancy with an optional evening at the Russian ballet. Clink that champagne and get those binoculars at the ready.

Included today:
-Driving tour of Moscow with a local guide
-Guided tour of the Kremlin

Down we go for a guided tour of the not-so-mundane Moscow Metro. If you're picturing the Piccadilly or Central Line in London, think again. Not even close! We're talking chandelier-lined stations, each one more decadent than the last. Next: visit Lenin's tomb. Keep the history lesson going with an optional guided tour of the Kremlin Armoury.

Hostel Plus trips host our most eclectic types of accommodation. While modern hostels make up the majority of your overnighters you could also stay in hotels (free upgrade – yeah!), Austrian Gasthofs, canvas cabins, ferry cabins or bungalows.

The ‘More Inclusions’ section details what type of accommodation will be used for overnight stops on your trip.

The number of people to a room on Hostel Plus trips will vary. For hostels you will have multi-share rooms and usually share with between 3 and 5 others (although in some circumstances you will share with more than 5) while in hotels there will be twin or triple-shares (and the odd quad-room). The number of people sharing in bungalows, canvas cabins, ferry cabins and Austrian Gasthofs can vary.

Please note: When staying on a Hostel Plus trip, multi-share accommodation is single-sex. You will also need to bring your own towels with you as these are not provided by all of our hostels.

Your included meals are detailed in the 'More Inclusions' section of this document.

Breakfasts are included every day (except on the first morning). They are usually 'continental breakfasts', which are typical in most European countries. A typical breakfast may consist of cereals with milk or yoghurt, bread, croissants, cold meats, cheese and a range of spreads, with fruit juice, tea or coffee to drink. It is rare to get a hot breakfast in continental Europe, though on some occasions there may be some hot food available as well.

Included meals will be a combination of those prepared by Topdeck On-Site Chefs, local restaurants and places in which we stay. Included evening meals are in local restaurants or accommodations, and are either two or three courses. In most cases table water is provided with the meals, and if you wish to purchase additional drinks you can do so at your own expense.

If you have any dietary requirements we will make every effort to cater to your specific needs as long as you advise your travel agent or Customer Service Consultant when you book, or make note of this in the Topdeck app when you check in (refer below). However, please be aware that although we will do everything in our power to arrange it, we cannot guarantee that every restaurant we use will be able to cater to all dietary needs, particularly in Eastern Europe. We also cannot cater for tastes or dislikes, as most of our included evening meals feature a set menu.

Your Topdeck crew never expect tips themselves and will not ask for any; that’s not what friends do! We also know how much tipping can cost you. So go ahead, spoil yourself with the money you will save by travelling with Topdeck (just don’t forget Mum’s souvenir).

Our travel app has landed! With a range of awesome features including a Currency Converter, Budget Tracker, Check-In tool and Social Timeline you can plan your trip like a pro. Think of it like your very own Topdeck Trip Leader, always on call with the latest info, weather, maps and city guides to give you the trip of a lifetime, all in the palm of your hand.

Please note: The Topdeck Travel App should only be downloaded once you have booked onto your trip. You will not be able to log in unless you have a Topdeck Booking Reference Number.

One of the best parts of travelling is experiencing the nightlife and entertainment each city has to offer. However, amidst the fun and excitement, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and personal safety as well. Before you hit the road with us, it’s important to be aware of the following:

When you’re on a night out, remember to avoid walking alone, particularly through deserted areas like beaches and back streets. Always stick together, take a taxi where possible, and keep a note of your accommodation details so you can find your way back to your fellow Topdeckers if you become separated.

In some countries, alcoholic measures can be considerably larger than what you may be used to. Try to keep track of what you’re drinking, and if you see one of your trip mates looking a little worse for wear, take them back to your accommodation. Be cautious when accepting drinks from strangers and never leave your drink unattended.

It’s also important to be aware that what you might consider harmless flirting may be interpreted differently in some countries. Be yourself and have fun, but don’t be naïve, and be mindful of the signals you are sending out so that you don’t find yourself in an uncomfortable situation.